Jewish Life
We believe Jewish overnight camp is an essential part of a young person’s heartfelt journey of connection and community.
As a non-denominational camp, we offer hands-on, experiential learning that helps each camper explore & connect with their own Jewish identity. Our campers and families come from diverse backgrounds — some are culturally Jewish, some from interfaith families, others are more observant, and many are somewhere in between. You don’t have to be Jewish — or have prior experience with Judaism — to feel at home in the Pinemere Community! There’s no such thing as a “typical” Pinemere camper, and that’s exactly what makes our camp so vibrant. Everyone is welcome. Everyone belongs.
Shabbat at Pinemere
Each Friday evening, we gather in white and khaki at our lakefront chapel for a Shabbat service led by campers and staff. Together, we sing, reflect, and celebrate — creating moments of unity that are uniquely Pinemere. Following services, we enjoy a festive Shabbat meal with camper-made decorations and raising ruach (spirit) as everyone cheers together. After dinner, Shabbat joy continues as campers change into their handmade tie-dye shirts for Tie-Dye, Fri-Dye, a festive evening of singing, Israeli dancing and celebration.
Shabbat Saturdays, Pinemere Style
A late wake-up on Saturday morning sets the tone for a relaxed, campy take on Shabbat services. A cherished site is campers instinctively linking arms and swaying to the music together. Once each session, we even offer alternative services like yoga, meditation, nature hikes, or even “Shul-in-the-Pool.” The morning culminates in our traditional, all-camp Folk Sing at the amphitheater (affectionately known as the “Dell”) — where campers and staff lift their voices in song, accompanied by live music. After lunch, rest and regular camp activities, we close Shabbat with a short & lively musical Havdalah in the Dell. As the sun sets, guitars and drums echo across camp as we sing together and welcome a new week.
Our Connection to Israel
Pinemere has a proud tradition of weaving Israel into the fabric of camp life. Each summer, Israeli staff members bring their unique stories and experiences, helping campers connect to Israel in a personal and meaningful way. Our Rising 10th graders have the opportunity to travel to Israel, and throughout the summer, camp-wide programs creatively explore Israel’s history, culture, and people. In times of joy and in times of challenge, our connection to Israel remains strong — in our hearts, in our learning, and in our community.
